Mapping the knowledge domain of environmental sustainability in Ghana: a review and bibliometric analysis

Environmental sustainability remains central to achieving equitable and resilient development, particularly in resource-dependent nations like Ghana. This study analyzes and synthesizes existing research on environmental sustainability in Ghana, focusing on publication trends, influential authors and journals, thematic structures, and intellectual evolution. The study examined 385 articles sourced from Scopus and Web of Science databases guided by the Scientific Procedure and Rationale for Systematic Literature Review (SPAR-4-SLR) protocol. The result obtained using the Biblioshiny and VOSviewer software programmes revealed substantial increase in research output in the wake of the call for actions towards the global Sustainable Development Goals. Leading influential authors and journals reflected multidisciplinarity and a diversed ecosystem of journals providing avenues for scientific publications on the subject. Thematically, the literature has evolved from a primary focus on biodiversity conservation to incorporate emerging areas such as climate change, technological innovation, renewable energy, circular economy, and governance. Conceptual mapping reveals three dominant thematic clusters: socio-environmental systems, economic-environmental linkages, and integrated sustainability management. Despite growing scholarly interest, theoretical engagement and methodological diversity remain limited, with underexplored areas including adaptation, environmental justice, and policy impact assessment. The study identifies critical gaps and offers a forward-looking research agenda to guide scholars, policymakers, and practitioners in addressing Ghana’s complex sustainability challenges. This review contributes a structured synthesis of the field and highlights opportunities for deepening interdisciplinary, inclusive, and policy-relevant research on environmental sustainability in Ghana.